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The Shop Before Life
After two happy centuries in the prelife, Faythe is battling the most dangerous human emotion. She's bored.
But when she accepts a once-in-a-prelifetime opportunity to become Apprentice at the magical Shop Before Life, her days become dreadfully interesting.
Now she helps customers with the most important choice they'll ever make: who to become in the afterprelife--or "life", for short. Will they be born on Earth with MATHEMATICAL GIFTS? Or perhaps they'd prefer DELIGHTED BY CATS?
But Faythe has questions of her own. Like--what exactly is in these jars of human traits? And who is the mysterious Supplier who creates them?
Unfortunately, these questions could awaken an ancient conflict and even destroy the Shop itself. They should maybe mention that sort of thing during orientation.
Management are going to be furious, but their divine punishment must wait. Right now, Faythe needs to discover the secrets of the Shop in order to save it.
If she fails, nobody will become themselves ever again . . .
But when she accepts a once-in-a-prelifetime opportunity to become Apprentice at the magical Shop Before Life, her days become dreadfully interesting.
Now she helps customers with the most important choice they'll ever make: who to become in the afterprelife--or "life", for short. Will they be born on Earth with MATHEMATICAL GIFTS? Or perhaps they'd prefer DELIGHTED BY CATS?
But Faythe has questions of her own. Like--what exactly is in these jars of human traits? And who is the mysterious Supplier who creates them?
Unfortunately, these questions could awaken an ancient conflict and even destroy the Shop itself. They should maybe mention that sort of thing during orientation.
Management are going to be furious, but their divine punishment must wait. Right now, Faythe needs to discover the secrets of the Shop in order to save it.
If she fails, nobody will become themselves ever again . . .
340 pages, Hardcover
Published October 28, 2019
About the author
Neil Hughes
7 books22 followersNeil Hughes finds it difficult to describe himself, especially in the third person. He has spent time as a comedian, writer, computer programmer, travelling speaker, physicist and mental health campaigner, and now he's pretty tired and trying not to worry too much about everything.
After many years living all over the place, he has returned to the north-west of England where he does various things that help people to be happy. He wishes there was a way to say this without sounding so painfully cheesy.
After many years living all over the place, he has returned to the north-west of England where he does various things that help people to be happy. He wishes there was a way to say this without sounding so painfully cheesy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
November 25, 2019
A surprisingly fresh and unique take on what happens before you're born. In "The Shop Before Life," Hughes examines the prelife through the eyes of a curious young woman named Faythe. For nearly two centuries she's been perfectly content to play pranks on her friends and just hang around, but after a chance encounter with two men who work in management; she's decided to try out a new adventure, being an apprentice in the shop before life. Now her life is almost too exciting; every day she learns something new and she gets to help customers choose the traits that they want to be born with. Bravery. Bad with Numbers. Slightly Modest. Bad Digestion. Dogged Determination. Joy. Always Late. Taller Than Normal. Generous Heart. Inappropriate Humor. Nimble. Heroic. Introvert. If you can think of a trait, you can find it at the shop. After customers have stocked up on what traits they want they journey to earth where you are born. Faythe gets to assist the customers under the Shopkeeper's watchful eye, but things aren't starting off so smooth. To start with, she signed a one thousand year contract and if the Shopkeeper doesn't warm up to Faythe, it's going to be a frosty millennium. But she can't help if she has questions and curiosity! What harm can knowledge do? The answer Faythe, soon discovers, is a lot. Funny, unique, and appealing; this was a more than enjoyable read!
December 23, 2019
“People have made pretty incredible things in the prelife.”
Meet Faythe, a bored prelife individual who has finally had enough of her small world within the Rock she calls home and finally wants something more for herself. Just as she decides she wants to move on and be born on Earth, she’s presented with something too tempting to turn down – the chance to work at The Shop Before Life, where all human traits are kept and given out to prelifers on their way to being born on Earth. Her first few days/weeks/months/years (time is relatively pointless in the prelife, after all) are full of ups and downs as she learns first the intricacies of her new position, and the numerous ways they can all go wrong with the least bit of effort. Without spoiling too much from this point on, just know that the more Faythe learns about The Shop, the Shopkeeper, the traits, and her new position in all of this, the more she realizes she doesn’t know. Things happen in the great quest for knowledge, and poor Faythe has to unravel it all before things really go wrong – maybe even for good.
I really liked this book. The writing style was engaging and the dialogue was funny. I liked how unique the entire setting and premise was, especially. I’m usually such a dark-and-serious fantasy fan that this is normally something I would have passed up, but I found myself equal parts delighted and excited to read what comes next. It’s definitely a fun fantasy book for all ages that I highly recommend.
Thanks to BookSirens for providing a copy of this great novel in exchange for an honest review.
10 month update: I just re-read this book with some friends and enjoyed it just as much the second time through. If my initial review wasn't enough to convince you to give this book a look, perhaps the fact that it's worth a re-read will!
Meet Faythe, a bored prelife individual who has finally had enough of her small world within the Rock she calls home and finally wants something more for herself. Just as she decides she wants to move on and be born on Earth, she’s presented with something too tempting to turn down – the chance to work at The Shop Before Life, where all human traits are kept and given out to prelifers on their way to being born on Earth. Her first few days/weeks/months/years (time is relatively pointless in the prelife, after all) are full of ups and downs as she learns first the intricacies of her new position, and the numerous ways they can all go wrong with the least bit of effort. Without spoiling too much from this point on, just know that the more Faythe learns about The Shop, the Shopkeeper, the traits, and her new position in all of this, the more she realizes she doesn’t know. Things happen in the great quest for knowledge, and poor Faythe has to unravel it all before things really go wrong – maybe even for good.
I really liked this book. The writing style was engaging and the dialogue was funny. I liked how unique the entire setting and premise was, especially. I’m usually such a dark-and-serious fantasy fan that this is normally something I would have passed up, but I found myself equal parts delighted and excited to read what comes next. It’s definitely a fun fantasy book for all ages that I highly recommend.
Thanks to BookSirens for providing a copy of this great novel in exchange for an honest review.
10 month update: I just re-read this book with some friends and enjoyed it just as much the second time through. If my initial review wasn't enough to convince you to give this book a look, perhaps the fact that it's worth a re-read will!
May 11, 2020
What a delightful book! Neil really paints a beautiful description of the pre-life, as an irritatingly relatable main character takes us on her journey to discover what gives her meaning and makes her unique. He also examines who/what to believe, and how to deal with perceptions when they get turned on their head, which is quite fitting for today's reader. His comedic wit had me smirking through most of the book, along with the characters' zany idiosyncrasies which made each one special and lovable.
December 14, 2019
Read the blurb. This book is exactly what the author says it is. I found it unique. Different than anything I've read before. Much of the book is the discovery about what the shop before life is and what it isn't, through the experiences of the characters. The drama and climax build and complete nearer to the end of the story. I like that it made me think about life and that the conflicting ideas are resolved. I liked it. I received an ARC of this book but this is my voluntary review.
October 11, 2020
I really loved this book! It was a little slow starting, but the ending and story are so worth it. I wish a few more questions were answered, but I guess that may be the point. This is definitely an easy read but it's perfect for getting you out of that reading slump!
January 7, 2020
(review request submitted by the author for an honest critique)
Life is a fickle b!tch. People are born. People live. People die.
People speculate what comes after death. Some people believe there’s a heaven and hell. While others stand firm in the knowledge, nothing is awaiting us in the afterlife. With all the discussion on the after, people rarely speak of the before. This is where The Shop Before Life became very interesting to me.
Whether you have faith in a higher being or not, this story will get you thinking. I can’t disclose the bombshell Faythe discovered when she met Management; however, I will briefly talk about the shop and the jars of traits.
Every possible trait was available to those who entered the shop.
1.) Grab a basket and browse the numerous aisles.
2.) See something you like, add it to your basket.
3.) Once you fill your basket and can’t carry anymore, head to checkout.
4.) Now, you are all set to journey to Earth and be born.
Sounds simple, right?! Ah, the simplest ideas and jobs often prove most challenging.
Have you ever been to the store and the shelves haven’t been restocked yet?
Something you want is out of stock?
Maybe your favorite store closed down?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, then how upset did you become?
The people of prelife reacted in the same manner you’d expect a living, breathing person to behave. Yup, they went off the rails.
Life on Earth was affected because of the events happening in and around the shop. I won’t say how though. (No Spoilers)
I encourage everyone to read this story. It’s highly entertaining, thought-provoking, and the perfect book for many age groups.
Find more reviews/ratings at www.superkambrook.com
#KamsPlace
Life is a fickle b!tch. People are born. People live. People die.
People speculate what comes after death. Some people believe there’s a heaven and hell. While others stand firm in the knowledge, nothing is awaiting us in the afterlife. With all the discussion on the after, people rarely speak of the before. This is where The Shop Before Life became very interesting to me.
Whether you have faith in a higher being or not, this story will get you thinking. I can’t disclose the bombshell Faythe discovered when she met Management; however, I will briefly talk about the shop and the jars of traits.
Every possible trait was available to those who entered the shop.
1.) Grab a basket and browse the numerous aisles.
2.) See something you like, add it to your basket.
3.) Once you fill your basket and can’t carry anymore, head to checkout.
4.) Now, you are all set to journey to Earth and be born.
Sounds simple, right?! Ah, the simplest ideas and jobs often prove most challenging.
Have you ever been to the store and the shelves haven’t been restocked yet?
Something you want is out of stock?
Maybe your favorite store closed down?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, then how upset did you become?
The people of prelife reacted in the same manner you’d expect a living, breathing person to behave. Yup, they went off the rails.
Life on Earth was affected because of the events happening in and around the shop. I won’t say how though. (No Spoilers)
I encourage everyone to read this story. It’s highly entertaining, thought-provoking, and the perfect book for many age groups.
Find more reviews/ratings at www.superkambrook.com
#KamsPlace
November 5, 2019
This is one of those books with a startlingly fresh premise... a book set not in the afterlife but the *pre-life*... that ACTUALLY delivers on the initial delight of the idea. I loved the character of Fayth. As she sort of perpetually gets in trouble at work as the new employee of the Shop Before Life, tries to understand the "office politics," and gradually learns just how much to challenge and rebel as she discovers herself... I found her woes surprisingly relatable, despite the fact that I've never worked anyplace like a shop selling magical human traits in jars!
I could go on about the minimalist but rich setting, about the insights I took away about human nature, about the other characters I loved most, about how I think this book should be made into a spectacular motion picture immediately... But I'll just say this:
This book reminds me of the best parts of Terry Pratchett's work: humorous, fun, philosophical, makes-you-think. I think everyone looking for some giggles, but also some heart, a plot that'll keep you up at night reading, and an end twist that will seriously GET you... you need to read The Shop Before Life today.
I could go on about the minimalist but rich setting, about the insights I took away about human nature, about the other characters I loved most, about how I think this book should be made into a spectacular motion picture immediately... But I'll just say this:
This book reminds me of the best parts of Terry Pratchett's work: humorous, fun, philosophical, makes-you-think. I think everyone looking for some giggles, but also some heart, a plot that'll keep you up at night reading, and an end twist that will seriously GET you... you need to read The Shop Before Life today.
November 25, 2019
"For everyone still choosing who to become" is the quote listed at the beginning of the book, before the very first chapter. The "prelife" of it, if you will. And that is a huge takeaway from this story. The humor kicked off from the start, setting a wonderful tone for the story to come.
The plot concept, the setting, the characters - all of them are delightful. I especially enjoyed the well-written dialogue and banter. I certainly don't remember anything before I was born, but I wish I knew what I was thinking when I picked my skills :) All kidding aside, it makes me stop to think about my skills and traits in a different light, which is intriguing.
For myself in particular, the depiction of the corporate world was not only spot-on, but humorous as well. I started my first (and so far only) corporate job over 13 years ago and have truly come to understand, and often despise, the political games to be played. I'm sure this helped me connect to Fayth, but even if you have never held this type of position, you can truly sympathize with her.
Office life aside, the concept is quite original and wonderfully executed. It's absolutely worth a read!
The plot concept, the setting, the characters - all of them are delightful. I especially enjoyed the well-written dialogue and banter. I certainly don't remember anything before I was born, but I wish I knew what I was thinking when I picked my skills :) All kidding aside, it makes me stop to think about my skills and traits in a different light, which is intriguing.
For myself in particular, the depiction of the corporate world was not only spot-on, but humorous as well. I started my first (and so far only) corporate job over 13 years ago and have truly come to understand, and often despise, the political games to be played. I'm sure this helped me connect to Fayth, but even if you have never held this type of position, you can truly sympathize with her.
Office life aside, the concept is quite original and wonderfully executed. It's absolutely worth a read!
November 9, 2019
When you have Faythe ...
If you’ve ever imagined what life before the life of being born on Earth might look like, read this book.
If you can’t even imagine what that looks like really read this book.
Sure it’s fictional and may or may not hold some long held not so secret secrets. I don’t remember and yet I’ve not met anyone who remembers the prelife either.
So really what do I know of it’s trueness?
Still it may just remind you that human is human no matter what state of life you’re living. Have faith or rather Faythe that you know what to do and you’re brave no matter what’s happening.
If you’ve ever imagined what life before the life of being born on Earth might look like, read this book.
If you can’t even imagine what that looks like really read this book.
Sure it’s fictional and may or may not hold some long held not so secret secrets. I don’t remember and yet I’ve not met anyone who remembers the prelife either.
So really what do I know of it’s trueness?
Still it may just remind you that human is human no matter what state of life you’re living. Have faith or rather Faythe that you know what to do and you’re brave no matter what’s happening.
February 11, 2021
Never Meet Your Heroes - Or Gods
Faythe has enjoyed a lovely 200 years in the pre life, but is now, as humans get, bored. She leaves her companions behind, and begins walking The Road in order to get to The Shop, the magical place where people choose traits to with them to Earth when they're born. On the way, she is accosted by 2 men who claim to "represent Management" and pressed into a 1,000 contract as Apprentice to The Shop. There, Faythe must learn the do's and don'ts of Customer Service, as well as thwart what appears to be a TERRIBLE plan that could change the prelife forever.
Faythe has enjoyed a lovely 200 years in the pre life, but is now, as humans get, bored. She leaves her companions behind, and begins walking The Road in order to get to The Shop, the magical place where people choose traits to with them to Earth when they're born. On the way, she is accosted by 2 men who claim to "represent Management" and pressed into a 1,000 contract as Apprentice to The Shop. There, Faythe must learn the do's and don'ts of Customer Service, as well as thwart what appears to be a TERRIBLE plan that could change the prelife forever.
November 7, 2019
This is a wonderful thought provoking story interlaced with Neil's playful humour. A real page turner and very cleverly written to make you think about life and the way we feel. I highly recommend!
January 19, 2025
A charming adventure with all the creative wit of HitchHiker's Guide To The Galaxy and all the whimsy of Dallergut Dream Department Store!
Wow where do I even begin? My partner gifted me this book after hearing how much I enjoyed Dallergut Dream Department Store and thinking the concept sounded similar. After finishing this, I now adore both of those books but this one is definitely my new favourite!
The main character is a playful, mischeivous woman named Faythe. At first I wasn't sure about her pranks, and I definitely felt bad for her two roommates (or I suppose rockmates!), but this character soon grew on me and I was really rooting for her the moment she started having difficulties in the shop.
The setting for this book is so creative with charming worldbuilding that's complex enough that you feel transported but not too complicated that you're struggling to keep up. I absolutely adored the magical feel of the shop: the funny Children who work there as staff, the wide assortement of traits, the unique customers. I wish it were real so I could explore it myself!
I also love the overall nostalgiac feel of the book. The easy-to-read writing style and whimsical story took me back to how reading felt as a child. I even loved the little narrator passages and read every one! My only complaint was that I wish Hughes had more books like this for me to read.
So if you're looking for something magical, easy-to-read, with a fast-paced storyline and a unique setting then definitely give this book a go! I'm so glad my partner found this for me. It was the perfect escape from a very grey January <3
Wow where do I even begin? My partner gifted me this book after hearing how much I enjoyed Dallergut Dream Department Store and thinking the concept sounded similar. After finishing this, I now adore both of those books but this one is definitely my new favourite!
The main character is a playful, mischeivous woman named Faythe. At first I wasn't sure about her pranks, and I definitely felt bad for her two roommates (or I suppose rockmates!), but this character soon grew on me and I was really rooting for her the moment she started having difficulties in the shop.
The setting for this book is so creative with charming worldbuilding that's complex enough that you feel transported but not too complicated that you're struggling to keep up. I absolutely adored the magical feel of the shop: the funny Children who work there as staff, the wide assortement of traits, the unique customers. I wish it were real so I could explore it myself!
I also love the overall nostalgiac feel of the book. The easy-to-read writing style and whimsical story took me back to how reading felt as a child. I even loved the little narrator passages and read every one! My only complaint was that I wish Hughes had more books like this for me to read.
So if you're looking for something magical, easy-to-read, with a fast-paced storyline and a unique setting then definitely give this book a go! I'm so glad my partner found this for me. It was the perfect escape from a very grey January <3
September 11, 2020
Imagine if you could choose your traits before coming to earth? As a follow-on from Hughes' fictional taster in his first book, 'Walking on Custard & The Meaning of Life: A Guide For Anxious Humans', 'The Shop Before Life' imagines exactly that. Fayth, the protagonist, is living happily in the 'pre-life', under a rock...but she can't help but wonder if there is something 'more' out there (haven't we all been here?!) ...accepting a job as an apprentice, she ventures on to 'The Shop', considered wondrous, yet completely unknown, by her and her peers. Amongst magical jars, a never-ending stream of customers (I've been here!) and fantastical co-workers, Fayth makes mistakes in her new job...beats herself up...pushes herself...grapples with relationships...makes more mistakes (haven't we all been here?!) ...and as she conquers feats she never thought imaginable, it is hard to believe we are with the same Fayth we met at the start of the book.
Hughes' writing is witty and imaginative, with ideas that are very much 'today' cleverly woven in. With Fayth eventually accepting herself, traits n' all (sorry, spoiler alert!), I think this tale can apply to all.
Hughes' writing is witty and imaginative, with ideas that are very much 'today' cleverly woven in. With Fayth eventually accepting herself, traits n' all (sorry, spoiler alert!), I think this tale can apply to all.
April 4, 2023
This was an enjoyable book (there was a moment I was quite annoyed with Faythe's decisions, but the book didn't suffer greatly from those). I want to start by mentioning the lovely separators within the book - the pictures of jars. Nice!
The author's sense of humor is brilliant, I love it so much, I had a good laugh here and there.
I also loved the author's sense of how the world works - his view on joy, sadness, forgiveness, friendship, betrayal. Seems like a wise person.
There was an ongoing bit of mystery until the end. I had some doubts the entire time that were answered on the last couple of pages. It's a good read when some secrets are kept until the end.
I hope they film this book (even though I know they would disapoint us, the readers) - that would be a beautiful one. The glinting jars <3
The author's sense of humor is brilliant, I love it so much, I had a good laugh here and there.
I also loved the author's sense of how the world works - his view on joy, sadness, forgiveness, friendship, betrayal. Seems like a wise person.
There was an ongoing bit of mystery until the end. I had some doubts the entire time that were answered on the last couple of pages. It's a good read when some secrets are kept until the end.
I hope they film this book (even though I know they would disapoint us, the readers) - that would be a beautiful one. The glinting jars <3
August 31, 2024
This book is so special! The entire concept of people picking out their character traits during the “pre-life” before heading to Earth is so ingenious. I’m shocked nobody really thought of this sooner. It equally shocks me that more people haven’t been exposed to this work of beauty. Hughes has created such a unique pre life world and quite incredible characters to go along with it. He takes on big topics such as fear of change, doing what’s right versus doing what benefits you most, trusting people, letting go, being the kind of leader the people need, and having the bravery to make the changes you know need made. When we face our biggest disappointments, how we handle them says so much about us. The biggest take away is remembering that all actions have consequences. He hit the nail on the head with the way he portrayed all of these things and more. Not only that, but the characters are FUNNY! Not the kind you laugh at because it’s such a stretch, but genuinely so funny at times.
Please, if you don’t ever listen to any other recommendations of mine, listen to this one! Go read this book! (Maybe it’ll give him the inspiration he needs to right the sequel. 😉)
Please, if you don’t ever listen to any other recommendations of mine, listen to this one! Go read this book! (Maybe it’ll give him the inspiration he needs to right the sequel. 😉)
June 25, 2020
This book tickled my imagination, flirted with my left brain and hugged my sense of humour. It was hard to decide whether to munch the book in one sitting or to read it really slowly and mindfully. There is this intriguing main story in parallel reality, but Neil’s witty humour, delightful and influential metaphors and language he uses are so rich, that even one sentence can hold a story of its own and you just have to stop and let that sink in, to think the deeper meaning of it. Or just laugh out loud. I thoroughly enjoyed. You can tell Neil is a comedian with a huge heart, intellect with otherworldly imagination and a Writer, not only an author. This book has travelled in my handbag with other essentials for quite a long time now - usually my fictional books are not all worn and dog-eared, but this is. That makes me wonder if it is all fictional… kind of hope it isn’t. Don’t know, but I think I’m ok with it. What I do know, is that I’m going to miss The Shop Before Life.
February 24, 2023
This is a wholesome sweet story of a very unique nature: the story of prelife, where we all start our journey from before arriving to Earth.
Most of the story would qualify as a cosy fantasy. It's a lot like a coming of age book, so it is suitable for all ages. Ot would definitely make a fantastic read for a child or a younger person, but it's equally suitable for adults. I don't read middle grade or YA and i loved it so there you are.
Other than the annoying mid-part where the protagonist acts like a crazed toddler and dutifully messes up everything in a huge way ("oh shit i f***ed up, but i can fix it... Let's not tell anyone.... Oh shit i f***ed up even worse but i know i can fix it... Let's not ask for help ... " repeat ad nauseam), the rest is really enjoyable and is less predictable than you expect.
I loved the end solution, it made the cringy part all worthwhile pushing through. Definitely would recommend!
Most of the story would qualify as a cosy fantasy. It's a lot like a coming of age book, so it is suitable for all ages. Ot would definitely make a fantastic read for a child or a younger person, but it's equally suitable for adults. I don't read middle grade or YA and i loved it so there you are.
Other than the annoying mid-part where the protagonist acts like a crazed toddler and dutifully messes up everything in a huge way ("oh shit i f***ed up, but i can fix it... Let's not tell anyone.... Oh shit i f***ed up even worse but i know i can fix it... Let's not ask for help ... " repeat ad nauseam), the rest is really enjoyable and is less predictable than you expect.
I loved the end solution, it made the cringy part all worthwhile pushing through. Definitely would recommend!
March 23, 2020
This was not exactly what I usually read, but I was intrigued by the premise. We know about life as we live it, and what happens to us when we die according to our own personal beliefs, BUT did you ever wonder what if our pre-life is actually decided before we are born? This book actually made you think, what if I had the chance to arrange the personality traits I could have? Fayth was having fun just existing in the pre-life "realm" althugh she was getting a little bored and wanted some excitement and then she met two shop managers that deal with the traits people shop or to give them traits they want when the go into "life." They get her with a 1000 year contract to work as an apprentice in the store helping people decide what traits they want. There are a lot of twists and realizations as well as Fayth finding things aren't all rosy in the store and she learns a little about herself as well. With lots of laughs as well as wonderful dialogue you will definitely enjoy this book and it will make you think as well! I loved that it did make me think as well as enjoy turning pages until a surprise at the end! I received and ARC but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own
February 7, 2021
This was an incredibly good story that is quite different from anything I've ever read. While it's not my usual genre, I'm not sure what genre it belongs to. I guess it would have to be fantasy. Anyway, I would strongly recommend this book for anyone who is interested in stories of personal growth as the protagonist does indeed grow from a somewhat bumbling "I'm sorry" person who messes up into a graceful leader of people.
April 3, 2021
LOVED IT!! 😘
This is a great little story! Very unique and original. A lot to wrap my mind around at times because the author stretches and molds reality into something quite unlike how I am used to looking at the world.
I really loved the concept of a “Prelife” existing out there somewhere, especially just like the one that exists in the story. Many fascinating facets that are so delightful, from the Shopkeeper, to the Children, to the “Management”, as well as the shop itself where all the “pre-lifers” go to fill their baskets with the mysterious traits before moving through the tunnel that leads them to Earth to begin their “real life”.
All utterly delightful!! ☺️
This is a great little story! Very unique and original. A lot to wrap my mind around at times because the author stretches and molds reality into something quite unlike how I am used to looking at the world.
I really loved the concept of a “Prelife” existing out there somewhere, especially just like the one that exists in the story. Many fascinating facets that are so delightful, from the Shopkeeper, to the Children, to the “Management”, as well as the shop itself where all the “pre-lifers” go to fill their baskets with the mysterious traits before moving through the tunnel that leads them to Earth to begin their “real life”.
All utterly delightful!! ☺️
January 25, 2021
Wonderful, quirky story
This was right up my alley, as I loved Monty Python’s Meaning of life and many other witty and irreverent books by British authors. The author has a marvelous perception about pre-life (ha!) and definitely life. I loved every bit of this book. Keep writing!
This was right up my alley, as I loved Monty Python’s Meaning of life and many other witty and irreverent books by British authors. The author has a marvelous perception about pre-life (ha!) and definitely life. I loved every bit of this book. Keep writing!
October 15, 2021
3.7 stars
I love the concept of the traits and the Shop Before Life, but the plot could have been better. I also didn't love Faythe, the main character. She made a lot of avoidable mistakes and then spent chapters feeling sorry for herself. I did really enjoy the supporting cast, like Omaro, Tapak, Risk, the Gardener, and Beris!
I love the concept of the traits and the Shop Before Life, but the plot could have been better. I also didn't love Faythe, the main character. She made a lot of avoidable mistakes and then spent chapters feeling sorry for herself. I did really enjoy the supporting cast, like Omaro, Tapak, Risk, the Gardener, and Beris!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 30, 2021
Not my usual genre
This book is not my usual genre but it was a nice change and break from vampires, werewolves, dystopian and others. I couldn't stop reading and couldn't put it down even in my unusual reading time. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I think you will too!
This book is not my usual genre but it was a nice change and break from vampires, werewolves, dystopian and others. I couldn't stop reading and couldn't put it down even in my unusual reading time. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I think you will too!
March 14, 2021
Fascinating tale
A creative and innovative novel/philosophy of existence and choice. Maybe it is because I’ve been on a bit of a Kierkegaard binge lately, but this book certainly has expanded my existential understanding
A creative and innovative novel/philosophy of existence and choice. Maybe it is because I’ve been on a bit of a Kierkegaard binge lately, but this book certainly has expanded my existential understanding
March 18, 2021
What did I just read?
I'm having difficulty describing this book. It looks like a new age stuff, but it's not. It sounds like a fiction, but not really. A mash-up of everything is what is this book.
I'm having difficulty describing this book. It looks like a new age stuff, but it's not. It sounds like a fiction, but not really. A mash-up of everything is what is this book.
September 13, 2021
Reads like a children’s cartoon. I felt like I was reading the script to a Nickelodeon show. The main character is a bumbling idiot and the writing feels unedited. The concept is interesting enough, but overall, there’s quite a lot to be desired.
January 11, 2022
I really enjoyed this fun, quirky story with its unusual premise. It thoughtfully considers what it means to be alive without getting too bogged down in ponderosity. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and felt like I kinda got to know the author too. A nice, unexpected treat.
February 10, 2024
I liked the concept, but the main character being absolutely incapable of making any good decision made this an incredibly frustrating experience. It was also very predictable and the message was pretty flat. What a shame.
June 23, 2020
This book was very readable. I deliberately took my time with it, and enjoyed it more for that. The characters were well rounded, the villains complicated.
August 24, 2020
Wonderful
A little messy at times but the idea was so good I forgave the wee mistakes.
Fantastic. I've told everyone I know about this book. Sxx
A little messy at times but the idea was so good I forgave the wee mistakes.
Fantastic. I've told everyone I know about this book. Sxx
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews